The symptoms of a mildly broken toe and a sprained toe can be similar. Many toes that are sprained could possibly heal on their own. However, a broken toe generally requires a more proactive healing method. An effective way to accomplish this is by taping the affected toe to the toe next to it. This process is referred to as buddy taping. Symptoms of a broken toe can consist of immediate swelling and bruising, and it can often become difficult to walk and move the affected toe. If you are experiencing signs of a broken toe, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist as soon as possible so they can provide you with correct treatment options.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Cary, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

High heels may be stylish, but unfortunately they are not ideal for the health of your feet or ankles. Frequently wearing high heels can lead to sore calves, foot pain, weakened ligaments, and deformed toes. These problems are magnified if the shoes are also ill-fitting, too tight, unsupportive, or have a narrow toe box. High heels may also increase your risk of incurring an ankle sprain or falling. Further up in the body, wearing high heels may lead to knee pain, lower back pain, and changes to your posture over time. Even with the risks mentioned, if you don’t want to permanently ban high heels from your shoe closet there are things you can do to lower your chances of foot pain, deformity, and injury. Wear high heels less frequently, choose shoes that fit properly and have a wide low heel, as well as plenty of room in the toe area to wiggle your toes. For more information about the relationship between footwear and proper foot health, please consult with a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Michael Tomey, DPM from Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Cary, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the posterior tibial nerve located at the back of the ankle becomes compressed. This leads to symptoms such as pain, burning, tingling, or numbness in the sole and heel of the foot. In about 40-50% of cases, the cause of tarsal tunnel syndrome is unknown, and it appears to arise spontaneously. In other cases, tarsal tunnel syndrome may occur due to a ganglion cyst, bone deformity, twisted and enlarged veins, tenosynovitis, and flat feet, among other causes. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be diagnosed through ultrasound and MRI and usually responds well to conservative treatments, such as anti-inflammatory medications and orthotics. To learn more about this condition, please consult with a podiatrist.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Michael Tomey, DPM of Cary Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Cary, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic shoes can bring relief to the feet of patients suffering from diabetes.